A boxer dog walking over a bridge in the Yorkshire Dales

The Ultimate UK Winter Dog Walks Guide

December 4, 2025

1. Buttermere Lake Circular – Lake District, Cumbria

A stunning lakeside loop with winter reflections, dramatic peaks, and safe low-level terrain perfect for dogs.

Distance: ~4.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Map: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/things-to-do/walking/routes-and-maps/routes-and-maps2/map-1

2. Horner Woods – Exmoor National Park, Somerset

Ancient oak woodland, rivers and mossy paths give this an enchanted winter feel. Dogs love the sheltered trails.

Distance: 2.5 miles there and back
Map: https://www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/4843/5-Horner-Wood.pdf

3. Lyndhurst Circular – New Forest, Hampshire

Gentle woodland, roaming ponies, and wide, easy paths make this ideal for dogs of all ages.

Distance: 2.9 miles
Map + GPX: https://www.walkingbritain.co.uk/walk-3554-description

4. Dog Falls Circular – Glen Affric, Scottish Highlands

One of Scotland’s most beautiful pine forests with river views, waterfalls and atmospheric winter mist.

Distance: 3.4 km / 2.1 miles
Map: https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/scotland/highlands/dog-falls-circular

5. Dog Falls & Coire Loch Walk – Glen Affric, Scottish Highlands

A mix of woodland, lochside views and peaceful trails. A must-visit for adventurous dogs and owners.

Distance: ~6 km / 3.75 miles
Map: https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/lochness/Dogfalls.shtml

6. River Beauly Riverside Circular – Highlands, Scotland

Easy riverside walking with open meadows and gentle woodland. Excellent for older dogs or chilled days out.

Distance: 5.2 miles
Map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/scotland/highlands/river-beauly-circular

7. Llyn Elsi & Clogwyn-Brith Circular – Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia

A uniquely peaceful forest walk leading up to a hidden lake. Great mix of woodland, views and variety for active dogs.

Distance: 10.8 km / 6.7 miles
Map: https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/wales/conwy/betws-y-coed-llyn-elsi-and-clogwyn-brith-circular

8. Rhinog Fach Circular From Coed y Brenin – Snowdonia

Distance: Moderate full-day walk
Map: https://www.walkingbritain.co.uk/walk-2544-map
Why it’s special: One of Snowdonia’s wilder corners with rugged views and open space — perfect for winter explorers.

9. Brimham Rocks Circular – North Yorkshire

Enjoy the spectacle of the giant rock formations, was created by an immense river 100 million years before the first dinosaurs walked the earth! Dog must be kept on a lead but the scenery is spectacular.

Learn more about Brimham Rocks here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/brimham-rocks

Map: https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/england/north-yorkshire/brimham-rocks-and-fell-beck